Easter's not all about eggs, says Perth's religious leaders

With Easter upon us many people's minds switch to thoughts of leisurely long weekends away from work, chocolate Easter eggs or heading south for a holiday.

However, local religious figures want to remind us that this weekend should also be a time of connection, kindness and reflection.

Father Joseph Walsh from Subiaco's St Joseph's Church says we should remember to treasure our local connections over Easter.

"Subiaco has developed a strong community over time, borne from the diversity of our neighbourhood and a sense of belonging that our residents enjoy," Father Walsh said.

"This becomes even more apparent at times like Easter when we see local family and friends come together, whether that's attending our Easter service or spending time together over lunch at the local cafes."

Father Joe, who has been in Subiaco for over 11 years, says he's noticed an uptake in church attendance, which he hopes is signalling a return to tradition.

"It's important that we don't lose touch with our neighbours and Easter is a good time to re-establish those local connections that bind us together in good times and bad."

"Perhaps the return to church is a reflection of Perth's burgeoning population and the desire to strengthen community ties?"

The Very Reverend Father Stanko from the Macedonian Orthodox Church of St Nikola in North Perth says eggs are a symbolic part of a Macedonian Easter but the celebration is also about spiritual connection.

"We paint eggs in the colour red to signify God and new life and to remember the sacrifices of Jesus Christ."

The Orthodox Macedonian Church celebrates Easter a week later than other faiths but they do mark this weekend with traditions as well.

"We also bless the olive branches and flowers as a part of our Easter celebration but it's really about coming together and being thankful for what we have," Reverend Father Stanko says.

"Easter is about respecting God and respecting each other's religion. It's also about loving each other and understanding each other."

Rabbi Dovid Freilich, Shlita from Perth's Jewish Congregation says he hopes people will attend church regardless of their religious nomination.

"I hope not too many people are running away on holidays for this long weekend; I hope they're going to church," laughs the jovial Rabbi who will be busy celebrating Passover this weekend.

"After all I think there needs to be more religion, values and beliefs in society and I'm sure the other heads of the churches will agree with me 100 per cent."

"You see, I'll ask them to encourage my people to come to my Synagogue and I'll encourage their people coregents to go theirs," he jokes.

On a more serious note, Rabbi Freilich says that Easter is about more than just prayer.

"Religion is about bringing harmony and peace in God's world and therefore it's important that we all understand each other and respect each other's religions at this time and at all times."